April 25, 2026 | Washington, DC

Celebrating Black Stories, Creativity and Community

Welcome to Chocolate City Literature Festival

Where Black literature meets Black joy. Explore thought-provoking panels, meet incredible authors, discover rising voices, and experience a festival built to honor our stories in every form.

BOOKED & BLESSED

Meet your favorite authors face-to-face, get books signed, and hear behind-the-scenes gems at live panels. Discover rising voices, grab limited-edition merch, and take home stories that stay with you.

THE CULTURE CONNECT

Think: literary family reunion. It’s where readers, writers, and community link up—whether you’ve known each other for years or met 10 minutes ago in line. Expect convos that linger.

BREATHE & BE

This is a soft space for the lit lovers. We’ve padded the schedule with breaks, cozy corners, and calm energy so you can enjoy the magic and take a breather.

THE BLACK-OWNED MARKETPLACE

Come shop with the brands who get it. Our vendor hall features Black-owned brilliance—think bookish goods, beauty, wellness, art, and more. Bring your tote bag. You’ll need it.

KID-FRIENDLY & LIT

Bring the little ones! We’ve got activities, author-led story time, and creativity zones just for them. Because they deserve to see themselves in stories, too.

IT’S BIGGER THAN BOOKS

Chocolate City Literature Festival isn’t just about what’s on the page. It’s about being seen, heard, and celebrated. It’s about building something lasting—together.

Step into a celebration of Black stories, creativity, and community.

Join bestselling authors, indie favorites, readers, booksellers, and culture lovers for a weekend of panels, signings, exhibits, parties, and vibes—right here in Chocolate City.

Where to Stay Near SYCAMORE & OAK

If you’re looking to stay close to the action, we’ve got you covered with hotel options near Sycamore & Oak. Whether you’re coming for the full festival weekend or just a quick visit, these accommodations are within driving distance and accessible by rideshare, car, or Metro.

Support The Festival

Your contribution helps CCLF bring communities together through art, culture, and celebration. Every donation, big or small, keeps the festival alive and thriving for everyone to enjoy.

Our Literary Lineup..

Some of Our Literary Lineup

A Blossom

A.A. Lewis

A.H. Cunningham

Anna J

Antoinette Sherell

she/her

Arriel Vinson

she/her

Autumn-Joi Barrett

she/her

Ayoka B

Bella Jay

The Marketplace at CCLF

Ticket options

Chocolate City Literature Festival (CCLF) offers tiered ticket options to give you the experience that fits your vibe.
Whether you’re here for the full literary weekend or just pulling up for Saturday, we’ve got you covered—with options for teens and free entry for little ones too.

Regular Ticket

$338

$325 + $13 processing fees

Chocolate City Lit Festival 2026 — Event Schedule

Friday Night Mixer

An intimate evening of connection, conversation, and celebration.
Mingle with authors, publishers, readers, and creatives over cocktails and curated vibes.
This is your pre-game for an unforgettable lit weekend.

Saturday, April 25, 2026

CCLF is a D.C.-based celebration of Black authors and independent voices through panels, signings, and community

© 2025–2026. All rights reserved.

Terms | Privacy

CCLF is a D.C.-based celebration of Black authors and independent voices through panels, signings, and community

© 2025–2026. All rights reserved.

Terms | Privacy